Ducts are square or round metal tubes that branch out from your heater and air conditioner, carrying treated air throughout your home. Installing the standard 300 linear feet of ducted heating unit replacement cost runs around $3,000 to $7,500. Huge homes and complex jobs drive up the price.

How do you service a heating system?

The price of a new HVAC system depends on size, brand and installation costs. You can get a general idea of what you’ll pay by comparing prices for top-rated pros in your area.

If your old HVAC system is in poor condition, you’ll probably have to replace the ducts along with the unit. Old ducts are often leaky, causing a loss of up to 35% of treated air and leading to higher-than-necessary energy costs. Some ducts also rust from corrosion and other damage.

Leaky ducts can significantly decrease the efficiency of even the best-rated AC and furnace systems. A duct sealing service costs $250 to $2,000 on average, and it’s a good idea to do it before installing a new ducted system.

New ductwork installation can be done for a low cost in new construction or open basements, attics and additions. But adding ducts to existing homes can double the total installation cost because it requires extensive modification and cutting into walls, ceilings and floors.

An experienced contractor can make the process much easier by identifying and closing all existing leaks before starting any work. This ensures the new system is operating at peak performance from the start and helps to cut down on your heating and cooling costs in the long run.